The handheld gaming market just got a high-end contender. Ayaneo has officially unveiled the Next 2, a premium Windows-powered gaming device designed to push the boundaries of portability without sacrificing raw performance. Targeting enthusiasts who demand console-like controls and PC-level power, the Next 2 introduces a redesigned chassis, a stunning OLED display with adaptive refresh rates, and AMD’s latest Ryzen AI Max+ processors—all at a price that reflects its ambitions.
This isn’t just an incremental upgrade over Ayaneo’s original Next. The Next 2 rethinks ergonomics with larger grips and a more refined layout, catering to long gaming sessions. Under the hood, it leverages AMD’s Zen 5 architecture, manufactured on a 4 nm process, with configurations featuring up to a 16-core, 32-thread Ryzen AI Max+ 395 CPU. Integrated graphics come from AMD’s Radeon 8060S (RDNA 3.5), paired with an XDNA 2 NPU capable of 126 TOPS of AI acceleration—a first for a handheld device.
The Display: OLED Brilliance with Adaptive Refresh
At the heart of the Next 2 is a 9.06-inch OLED panel with a resolution of 2400 × 1504, delivering sharp visuals and deep blacks. The display supports switchable refresh rates from 60 Hz to 165 Hz, along with 1155 nits peak brightness and 5280 Hz PWM dimming for smooth, flicker-free gameplay. Full DCI-P3 color coverage ensures vibrant visuals, making it ideal for both gaming and media consumption.
Performance: Desktop-Class Power in a Handheld
The Next 2’s performance hinges on AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395, a chip built for efficiency and raw power. With boost clocks reaching 5.1 GHz, it rivals many desktop APUs, while the integrated Radeon 8060S GPU (clocked at 2.9 GHz) handles demanding titles with ease. Dual-fan cooling ensures sustained performance, and the device supports up to 128 GB RAM and 1 TB storage, depending on configuration.
Input and Connectivity: Built for Gamers
Ayaneo hasn’t overlooked input precision. The Next 2 features adjustable-torque TMR joysticks, Hall-effect linear triggers with dual-mode locks, and an eight-direction D-pad for tactile feedback. Additional controls include dual touchpads and customizable rear buttons. Connectivity is robust, with two USB4 ports (up to 40 Gbps and DisplayPort 1.4 output), a microSD card slot, and Bluetooth 5.4 for peripherals.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing reflects the Next 2’s premium positioning. Early-bird discounts start at $1,799 for the base model (Ryzen AI Max 385, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB storage), while the top-tier configuration (Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128 GB RAM, 1 TB storage) is priced at $3,499 early bird or $4,299 at retail. Pre-orders open soon via Indiegogo, with shipments expected in June 2026.
For those who prioritize portability without compromise, the Next 2 sets a new benchmark. Whether it justifies its price remains to be seen—but for AMD’s most powerful mobile chips yet, it’s a compelling package.
